GERD and Back Pain

June 14, 2011

Gastroesophageal Reflux Disease, otherwise known as GERD, can be broken down quite logically. Gastro refers to the stomach, and esophageal refers to the esophagus. Reflux typically means to flow backwards opposite from the direction intended. Thusly, GERD is caused by the contents of the stomach making their way back up the esophageal tube, much like the explosions of an active volcano.

For the vast majority of the 1900s, what is now known as GERD was simply referred to as heartburn. Many symptoms were treated with one basic type of antacid sold under a handful of different names. Although many people suffered from a variety of discomfort caused by stomach acids returning into the esophagus, it wasn’t until the 1990s that doctors attained a thorough understanding of the causes and treatments of GERD.

The disease typically begins with a person experiencing burning sensations in the hours following the ingestion of certain trigger foods, which can vary for each person based on several factors, including genetics and geography. In some cases, the burning sensations and pains caused by GERD can extend into the back, ribs, and shoulder blades. Pain in the back caused by GERD can be constant with sudden bursts of intensity, making it difficult for a person to conduct themselves in social and professional situations. In these types of cases, doctors typically ratchet-up the quantity and intensity of the prescriptions and may eventually recommend surgery. Thankfully, natural alternatives to treating GERD are available and affordable.

The quickest and most effective way to get rid of back pain caused by GERD is a drastic change in diet. Foods such as cheese, salsa, mustard, and chocolate are just a small handful of the hundreds of possible foods that can trigger intense symptoms. Identifying the foods that give you problems and avoiding them can provide steady relief of back pains caused by GERD. Drinking at least 60 ounces of water every day will decrease the acid ratios in your body, lessening their ability to cause discomfort. In short, a little awareness and dedication can go much farther than a bottle of pills.

For more information on GERD as it relates to back pain visit refluxremedy.com today!